Upgrade RB300 Tonearm or Not?


I am still trying to generate a little more discussion on upgrade issues and benefits for the Rega RB300 Tonearm. I initated another thread earlier with questions about the best wiring, and I want to thank everyone who contributed to that... espcially Onetwothreego. I am hoping for a more feedback on this thread. The question is basically this: I figure if I fully upgrade an RB300, according to my plan (new wiring, i.e. Discovery Cable, Incognito, etc., VTA adjustment, i.e., Pete Riggle VTAF, etc., upgrade counter weight), I would have ATLEAST $700 into an RB300. Is this really worth it for the money, or should I take the $700 and put it towards another tonearm, even if I have to kick in a little more money? I will be using the tonearm on a VPI MKIV with the Super Armboard and TNT platter. I would appreciate any thoughts on this matter advising me for the best bang for the buck. Thanks and regards, Din Dayemi
bside123
Bside, if your budget will allow a used Graham or late model SME, I would defnitely recommend you go for one of them. Graham 2.2s have been selling at very reasonable prices lately.

I agree with Johnny that the RB's bearings are a problem. No counterweight, VTA adjuster or wiring is going to mask that - in fact, if anything you'll only be made more aware of the sloppy bearings if you modify an RB.

Regards
Paul
>>Tell me anyone here can outthink and design Harry Weisfeld<<

Bob Graham, Frank Schroder, Tri Mai, and AJ Conti for starters.

How many more do you want?
>>Tell me anyone here can outthink and design Harry Weisfeld<<

Bob Graham, Frank Schroder, Tri Mai, and AJ Conti for starters.

How many more do you want?

I believe he was talking about people participating in the thread and not other designers.
I endorse the Michell TecnoArm recommendation. It has all the modifications to an RB250 that are needed at a steal price. I compared mine to an SME IV (same deck and cartridge and 4-5 times the price). I couldn't hear any significant difference.
I'd like to get an objective, non-hostile, opinion of an RB300 with Tecnoweight, Incognito and VTA sleeve. Obviously some folks in this forum don't like the RB300. I understand it has weaknesses like the bearing, but all things considered, how does it compare to other arms in the $500-600 used range?

Maybe a better question is: What arms stand out in this price range?